Thai Tom Yum Soup Recipe
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with a steaming bowl of Thai Tom Yum Soup. This iconic soup is a tantalizing explosion of flavors, combining the spicy, sour, and aromatic elements that Thai cuisine is renowned for. Whether you’re fighting off a cold or simply craving something warm and satisfying, this soup delivers everything you need in one bowl.
Why Cooks Rave About It
Thai Tom Yum Soup is a culinary masterpiece that showcases the incredible balance of flavors characteristic of Thai cooking. Each spoonful offers a delightful blend of spicy, sour, and savory notes that tantalize the taste buds. The freshness of the herbs and spices, combined with the succulent shrimp and mushrooms, creates a symphony of flavors that keeps you coming back for more. Plus, it’s a quick and easy recipe that can be whipped up in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings with friends.
Ingredient List
To make this delicious Thai Tom Yum Soup, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon Thai red curry paste
- 3 stalks lemongrass
- 1/2 medium white onion, sliced
- 5 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 (3-inch) piece galangal or ginger, sliced into thin pieces (no need to peel)
- 6 cups reduced sodium chicken broth
- 3 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 teaspoon Asian chili sauce, more or less to taste (optional)
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 5 kaffir lime leaves, roughly torn or 3 bay leaves + 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper (omit if using galangal and not ginger)
- 3 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 pound large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 oz. white mushrooms, sliced
- 2 large Roma tomatoes, cut into wedges
- Cilantro, for garnish
Tools of the Trade
Before diving into the cooking process, make sure you have the following tools on hand:
- Large pot or Dutch oven: For simmering the soup.
- Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring the ingredients.
- Knife and cutting board: To chop the vegetables and herbs.
- Measuring spoons and cups: For accurate ingredient measurements.
- Serving bowls: To enjoy your soup in style!
Thai Tom Yum Soup Recipe — Do This Next
Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients and tools, it’s time to make this scrumptious Thai Tom Yum Soup. Follow these simple steps for a delightful homemade experience:
Step 1: Heat the Oil
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Add the Thai red curry paste, lemongrass, sliced onion, minced garlic, and galangal (or ginger) to the pot. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onions become translucent and fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Broth
Pour in the reduced sodium chicken broth. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 4: Season the Soup
Add the fish sauce, Asian chili sauce (if using), brown sugar, dried basil, torn kaffir lime leaves (or bay leaves and lime zest), and pepper. Bring the soup to a gentle boil.
Step 5: Cook the Shrimp and Vegetables
Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and add the raw shrimp, sliced white mushrooms, and tomato wedges. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the shrimp turns pink and the mushrooms are tender.
Step 6: Finish with Lime Juice
Remove the pot from heat and stir in the lime juice. Adjust seasoning to taste, adding more fish sauce or lime juice if desired.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the hot soup into serving bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro. Enjoy your vibrant and flavorful Thai Tom Yum Soup!
Substitutions by Diet
If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, here are some substitutions you can consider:
- Vegetarian/Vegan: Substitute shrimp with tofu or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Gluten-Free: Ensure that the fish sauce is gluten-free or use tamari as a substitute.
- Low-Sodium: Use a low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth and adjust the fish sauce to taste.
- Sugar-Free: Replace brown sugar with a sugar substitute like stevia or omit it entirely.
What Could Go Wrong
While this recipe is relatively straightforward, here are some common pitfalls to avoid:
- Overcooking the shrimp: Make sure to cook the shrimp until just pink to avoid a rubbery texture.
- Too much heat: Adjust the chili sauce to your preferred spice level to ensure it’s enjoyable for everyone.
- Skipping the aromatics: The flavor of the soup relies heavily on the sautéed aromatics, so don’t skip this step!
- Not adjusting seasoning: Always taste and adjust the seasoning before serving to ensure the perfect balance of flavors.
Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide
To enjoy the deliciousness of your Thai Tom Yum Soup later, follow these storage tips:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even tastier! If you want to keep the soup longer, consider freezing it. Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much.
Troubleshooting Q&A
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
While fresh herbs provide the best flavor, you can use dried herbs in a pinch. Use about one-third of the amount called for fresh herbs, but be aware that the flavor won’t be as vibrant.
What if I can’t find galangal?
If galangal isn’t available, ginger is a suitable substitute. However, the flavor will differ slightly, as galangal has a more citrusy and earthy taste.
Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the soup in advance but add the shrimp and lime juice just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
How can I make it spicier?
If you love heat, consider adding more Asian chili sauce or fresh sliced chilies directly into the soup. Start with a small amount and increase to your desired spice level.
Explore More
If you love Thai cuisine, check out these delicious recipes:
Before You Go
Don’t miss out on the chance to enjoy a heartwarming bowl of Thai Tom Yum Soup. With its vibrant flavors and aromatic ingredients, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this dish is approachable, satisfying, and packed with flavor. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to indulge in a culinary adventure that brings the essence of Thailand right to your kitchen. Enjoy your cooking journey and savor every sip of this delightful soup!
Thai Tom Yum Soup Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
- Add the Thai red curry paste, lemongrass, sliced onion, minced garlic, and galangal (or ginger) to the pot. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onions become translucent and fragrant.
- Pour in the reduced sodium chicken broth. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Add the fish sauce, Asian chili sauce (if using), brown sugar, dried basil, torn kaffir lime leaves (or bay leaves and lime zest), and pepper. Bring the soup to a gentle boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and add the raw shrimp, sliced white mushrooms, and tomato wedges. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the shrimp turns pink and the mushrooms are tender.
- Remove the pot from heat and stir in the lime juice. Adjust seasoning to taste, adding more fish sauce or lime juice if desired.
- Ladle the hot soup into serving bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro. Enjoy your vibrant and flavorful Thai Tom Yum Soup!
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, freeze the soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
